So after getting the fuel distributor fixed on my 78 280slc, I noticed that starting was getting more and more difficult. I soon identified the fuel accumulator as the culprit. Fuel was coming out of the vent fitting on the back of the accumulator, indicating that the membrane inside was punctured/cracked.
Trouble is: the exact part number is out of stock almost everywhere, an when it is available the price is ludicrous (over U$ 300), because this same part number is also used on a Ferrari of the same vintage. It's pretty obvious that it will be a while before I get my hands on a new one.

So my question is this: It is bad to run without a fuel accumulator? (Besides the obvious starting issues). I'm thinking that removing the accumulator could improve starting slightly, given that I would be eliminating a pressure leak at least, right?